The Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 was passed in the Rajya Sabha with 128 votes in favor and 95 against, following its approval in the Lok Sabha with 288 votes in favor and 232 against. The bill now awaits the assent of President Droupadi Murmu to become law.
A key amendment involves the removal of Section 40 of the Waqf Act, which previously empowered Waqf Boards to claim and designate land as Waqf property. Reactions to the bill remain divided—supporters hail it as a move toward greater transparency and accountability, while critics argue it could infringe upon constitutional rights related to religious practices.
Read to know what leaders said after this historic pass in the parliament.
The passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill by both Houses of Parliament marks a watershed moment in our collective quest for socio-economic justice, transparency and inclusive growth. This will particularly help those who have long remained on the margins, thus being denied both voice and opportunity. Gratitude to all Members of Parliament who participated in the Parliamentary and Committee discussions, voiced their perspectives and contributed to the strengthening of these legislations. A special thanks also to the countless people who sent their valuable inputs to the Parliamentary committee. Yet again, the importance of extensive debate and dialogue has been reaffirmed.For decades, the Waqf system was synonymous with lack of transparency and accountability. This especially harmed the interests of Muslim women, poor Muslims, Pasmanda Muslims. The legislations passed by Parliament will boost transparency and also safeguard people’s rights. We will now enter an era where the framework will be more modern and sensitive to social justice. On a larger note, we remain committed to prioritising the dignity of every citizen. This is also how we build a stronger, more inclusive and more compassionate India.
The Waqf Amendment Bill’s passage through both Houses of Parliament reflects more than merely a parliamentary achievement. It’s a historic step towards justice, transparency, and accountability. Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Sri @narendramodi Ji, the NDA administration has once again proved its commitment to resolve long-standing concerns.
For years, there have been serious concerns about the operations of Waqf Boards. Lack of transparency, property mismanagement, and subsidies that do not reach their intended recipients, notably those living in poverty in the Muslim community, have all been serious problems. This amendment is a significant step towards addressing the Waqf Board’s challenges, increasing transparency, ensuring that Waqf benefits reach impoverished Muslims, and providing Muslim women with representation on the board. Rather than being a unilateral decision, this bill was thoroughly debated for about 12 hours in the Lok Sabha and around 14 hours in the Rajya Sabha. Every concern raised by the opposition was addressed and every question was answered. This is how a responsible and constitutionally committed government functions. This is how democracy should work.
As I have stated around 2008-2009, “Looting God’s property is more than just a betrayal of the nation. It is a betrayal to the god.” The new ‘UMEED’ law is more than just legislation. It’s a moral stand. It is a step towards protecting sacred assets, strengthening the Waqf Board, and demonstrating the NDA Government’s commitment to justice and fairness.